Automatic draining back flow prevention device

ABSTRACT

A double check valve is provided that includes an in-line inlet check valve and an outlet check valve that cooperate to prevent back flow of fluid through the valve. The check valve also includes at least one vent that allows for fluid trapped within the check valve to drain, thereby preventing freezing of the check valve and hydrant to which it is interconnected. The check valve provided omits many superfluous components and thus is smaller and easier to install than check valves of the prior art.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. Pat. Application Serial No.14/855,536, filed Sep. 16, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,482,353, which is acontinuation of U.S. Pat. Application No. 14/222,484, now U.S. Pat. No.9,228,666, filed Mar. 21, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat.Application Serial No. 13/601,821, filed Aug. 31, 2012, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,707,980, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. Application SerialNo. 13/241,039, filed Sep. 22, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,272,394, whichis a continuation of U.S. Pat. Application Serial No. 12/126,476, filedMay 23, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,042,565, the entire disclosures ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to back flowpreventors that interconnect to a water source. More particularly,devices that attach to a sill cock, or any other fluid source, toprevent back flow of fluids, that may contain contaminants into thefluid supply are provided.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Almost all buildings include some type of exterior fluid deliverysystem. The most common outdoor fluid delivery system is comprised of afaucet with a handle for actuating a valve that initiates or ceasesfluid flow from a fluid source through a sill cock of the faucet. Inorder to direct the exiting fluid, it is also well known to employ ahose that is threadingly interconnected to the sill cock. Fluid in thehose may, under certain conditions, enter the faucet and ultimately thefluid source. For example, if the fluid pressure in the hose is greaterthan the fluid supply pressure Aback flow@ will occur. Such back flowmay be harmless. One skilled in the art will appreciate, however, thatthe fluid in the hose could be harmful and result in spoilage of thewater supply or contamination of fluid dispensing apparatus ofteninterconnected to the hose.

One source of contamination includes pesticides and/or fertilizers thatare often associated with a delivery system that is interconnected tothe open end of the hose. Fluid from the supply is used to dilute thoseharmful chemicals in the delivery system prior to being distributed.Most municipalities require that a one-way check valve be included in afluid supply line that delivers water from a public water source to adwelling so that contaminated water cannot enter the public water supplyfrom the dwelling. Often, there is no requirement that dictates thatsimilar precautions are taken with respect to an exterior fluid deliverysystem that is associated with a dwelling. It is entirely conceivablethat contaminants entering a dwelling from an outside fluid source willaffect individuals associated within the dwelling but not the public atlarge. Further, if the above-mentioned check valve is absent ormalfunctioning contaminants could also enter the public water supply viathe dwelling.

Another issue related to back flow is the harmful effects of freezingwhen supply pressure is reduced and/or flow is stopped wherein liquidaccumulates within the faucet and/or related plumbing. When the ambienttemperature drops, the trapped liquid may freeze potentially causingsevere damage to the faucet interconnected check valve and/or associatedplumbing. To address this freezing, draining features have beenincorporated into prior art check valves, such as the A. W. Cash ValveCompany Model VB-111, which includes a stem that must manually beactuated to allow drainage when a hose is not connected. This type ofmanually draining valve relies on an operator to drain the valve, and isthus not reliable. Self-draining check valves, however, are also knownin the art and are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,575 to Lair (ALairI@), which is incorporated by reference herein. Lair I discloses aself-draining, single valve back flow preventor. When a hose isdetached, a spool succumbs to spring pressure and moves axiallyoutwardly from the outlet end of the check valve. A valve, housed withinthe spool, is thus allowed to move axially from its sealing washer topermit drainage. When the hose is connected, the spool and the valvehoused therein, are forced axially toward a sealing washer to create aseal that prevents back flow. Vent holes in the check valve preventaccumulation of back pressure within the valve. Sufficient waterpressure during supply flow with the hose attached overcomes a springused to seat the valve and deflects a vent sealing washer, therebysealing the vent holes. One drawback of the Lair valve is that foreignmaterial may lodge between the valve and the sealing washer, creating apassage through which back flow may occur.

One way to address the major drawback of Lair I is to provide a secondcheck valve. U.S. Pat. No. 3,905,382 to Waterston (AWaterston@), whichis incorporated herein, discloses a check valve with two normally closedspring biased valves, one inside an outlet, and the other located nearan inlet. The central portion of the Waterston check valve has anexternally-threaded vent outlet. When flow occurs, the supply pressureforces the inlet valve axially from its seat toward the outlet and sealsthe vent. As flow progresses to the outlet valve, the flow pressurecompresses an outlet spring and fluid is free to flow from the checkvalve. When flow ceases and back flow pressure is sufficient to overcomethe valve in the outlet, liquid accumulates in the sealed tube and isdischarged through a vent.

The Waterston valve does not provide a draining feature that relievesaccumulated liquid upstream from the check valve. In the event offreezing the accumulation of liquid upstream from the check valve canresult in severe damage to the check valve and plumbing upstream of thecheck valve. In addition, contamination may collect in the internalportion of the check valve such that when a back flow condition occurs,the contamination trapped in the check valve may enter the fluid supply.

Another system that employs more than one check valve to prevent backflow of a liquid into a distribution system by eliminating pressuredifferentials that may occur between the faucet and interconnected hose,is the V-444 Valve (AV-444") manufactured by A. W. Cash Valve Company.The V-444 is succinctly described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,228,470 to Lair etal. (ALair II@). The V-444 employs three separate valves enclosed in ahousing that allows drainage of the sill cock after the hose is removedand also prevents backflow into the structure. The V-444 includes anouter housing with an internally situated movable spool. The spoolincludes an o-ring positioned on an angled upper surface thereof thatcooperates with an angled inner surface of the housing to define a firstvalve that selectively opens and closes an outer passage that allowstrapped fluid in the sill cock to drain from a plurality of vent holes.The V-444 also includes an inlet check valve and an outlet valve thatcontrols fluid through the valve and that prevents backflow.

In a first mode of use, wherein no hose is connected and supply pressureis absent, the V-444 is self-draining. A spring forces the spooldownwardly to open a fluid path that drains fluid from the sill cockthrough the plurality of vent holes. Fluid trapped within the inlet andoutlet check valves also drains from the outlet of the valve.

In a second mode of use, wherein the V-444 is exposed to supply pressurewithout a hose interconnected, the spring will force the spooldownwardly, thereby creating a path for water to flow through the ventsof the check valve. The supply pressure will also deflect the inletcheck valve and the outlet check valve so that fluid will be able toexit the valve system.

In a third mode of operation, a hose is interconnected to the outletportion of the V-444, but no supply pressure is provided. Any backpressure generated by fluid in the hose will force the outlet checkvalve to seat upon a surface provided by the spool. In thisconfiguration, a hose forces the spool upward, thereby closing the firstvalve so that any fluid within the inlet check valve on the outlet valvecan only travel out of the vents and not into the fluid supply.

In a fourth mode of operation, supply pressure is added to the V-444with a blocked interconnected hose. Here, fluid from the fluid supplycauses a seal to deflect, thereby blocking the vents. In addition, theoutlet check valve is seated as described above, thereby preventingfluid from entering into the center of the V-444.

The V-444 includes a fifth mode of operation that is similar to thefourth mode wherein the hose is open to free flow. Again, since the hoseis interconnected, the first valve is closed. Fluid pressure causes theinlet valve to transition downwardly to seat on the stem, therebyallowing fluid to flow through the center of the inlet check valve. Thefluid pressure also pushes the outlet valve downwardly from its seat onthe stem, which allows fluid to freely flow into the hose.

Among the major drawbacks of the V-444 are its size, weight, dimensionsand inclusion of components that add to its complexity and expense,thereby rendering it unsuitable for use in various situations. Morespecifically, the V-444 check valve is approximately 2.2 inches inlength and 1.9 inches in diameter and weighs about 200 grams. This sizeis attributed to the use of complex valving mechanisms and the provisionof a first valve that includes a movable spool.

Other back flow preventors have been employed such as those similar tothe backflow preventor shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,013,910 toTripp (“Tripp”), which is incorporated by reference herein. Trippdiscloses an in-line backflow preventor that is used in fluidcarbonation systems is interconnected between a fluid source and amixing tank. The pressure in the mixing tank of these systems is oftengreater than the source pressure. Tripp is designed for eithercontinuous down-steam pressure increases or intermittent down-streampressure variations. Accordingly, Tripp does not have the capability ofreleasing pressure upstream of the valve outlet. Further, Tripp, due toits normally closed configuration, does not automatically drain orcontain other similar features that are required for freeze prevention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a double checkvalve for interconnection to a sill cock associated with an outsidewater source that prevents back flow into the water supply. Back flowcan occur as a result of a siphon condition wherein a vacuum existswithin the check valve, the sill cock or the water source that is apt tosuction water in a hose, or in the interconnected check valve into thewater supply. A back flow condition may also occur when the fluidpressure within the hose is greater than that of the water supply. Forexample, if the hose was taken to a roof of a building, the resultinghead pressure may be greater than the supply pressure. In addition, atemporary loss or interruption in supply pressure may create a pressuredifferential that would create a back flow situation. The embodiments ofthe present invention also provide freeze protection wherein waterinside the sill cock is allowed to freely drain from the double checkvalve after supply pressure is removed.

Embodiments of the present invention employ a valve body that includesan inlet check valve and an outlet check valve positioned within a valvebody and a valve cap. The inlet check valve includes an inlet check sealand is biased from the outlet check valve via a spring (or other similarresiliently deflectable member). The inlet check seal cooperates with amain seal that is positioned between the valve body and the valve cap ofthe double check valve. The outlet check valve is comprised of an outletcheck body with an outlet check seal that selectively engages a seatprovided in the valve body. The outlet check body and the inlet checkbody are preferably selectively interconnected to each other, which willbe described in further detail below. A hose plunger, which is adaptedto selectively engage a hose, is preferably slidingly interconnected tothe double check valve and is biased by a compressive member, such as aspring (or other similar resiliently deflectable member), that isassociated with the seat of the valve body. The hose plunger includes acentralized hub that engages an outlet check spring (or other similarresiliently deflectable member) that is associated with the outlet checkbody. This combination of components is sufficient to prevent back flowand to provide self-draining (e.g. promote freeze resistance) withoutthe need of a third check valve to control fluid flow through the vents.Detailed descriptions of the functionality of certain embodiments of thepresent invention will be provided below.

It is thus another aspect of the present invention to provide a checkvalve that omits or is devoid of components employed in prior artsystems, thus rendering embodiments of the present invention easier andless expensive to manufacture, lighter, less complex, less prone tomalfunction, and easier to repair. More specifically, embodiments of thepresent invention omit additional valves but continue to provide thesame functionality of check valves of the prior art, such as the V-444described above. That is, a system is provided that more effectivelyemploys less than three valves and preferably two valves, therebyallowing size, weight and failure reduction. For example, it iscontemplated that the double check valve of embodiments of the presentinvention are about ⅓ the size (preferably an about 70% reduction) ofthe V-444 check valve, which reduces bulk, weight and facilitatesinstallation. Preferably, the check valve of one embodiment of thepresent invention is approximately 1.2 inches in length (an about 44%reduction) and approximately 1.4 inches in diameter (an about 26%reduction) and weighs about 130 grams (an about 35% reduction). In oneembodiment, this reduction in size and weight is attributed to theomission of a spool and a stem that controls flow out of the vents ofthe V-444 check valve. To achieve this, embodiments of the presentinvention allow for drainage from a point other than through vents in avalve body, for example, drainage from the outlet of the double checkvalve as opposed to primarily through vents provided in a valve body, asis done by the V-444 check valve. In addition, the present inventionemploys a fixed inlet valve and a fixed outlet valve as opposed to thecomplicated valving scheme employed by the V-444, wherein a movablespool alters the configuration of the internal volume of the valvedepending on flow condition.

It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide acheck valve that meets the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE)regulations. More specifically the check valve of embodiments of thepresent invention meets the requirements of ASSE 1052.

It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a valvingsystem that is dual use. More specifically, embodiments of the presentinvention possess the capabilities of an in-line valve as disclosed inTripp and the ability to provide automatic self draining when a hose isdisconnected from the valve. The double check valve, preferably, employsnormally opened inlet and outlet check valves, which allows for completeand automatic drainage. When a hose is interconnected to the dual checkvalve, the inlet and outlet check valves close, and will open when thefaucet is turned on, for example. Normally opened (present invention)and normally closed (in-line) valves are different and are regulatedseparate ASSE standards. Normally opened check valves are regulated byASSE 1052 and in-line valves are regulated by ASSE 1022. ASSE 1022concerns backflow prevention devices that protect potable water suppliesthat serve beverage dispensing equipment. ASSE 1022 requires that twoindependently acting check valves be used that are biased to a normallyclosed position. Conversely, ASSE 1052 concerns basic performancerequirements and test procedures for backflow preventors that aredesigned to interconnect to a hose. ASSE 1052 valving systems aredesigned to protect against backflow due to back siphonage and low-headbackpressure, under the high hazard conditions present at a hosethreaded outlet. ASSE 1052 also requires that the inlet and outlet checkvalves be biased closed. Embodiments of the present invention complywith ASSE 1052 when a hose is interconnected thereto and provide neededautomatic drainage when the hose is disconnected, a technologicaladvancement over the prior art and an improvement over prior art devicessimilar to Tripp.

Accordingly, it is one aspect of the present invention to provide a backflow prevention device for interconnection to a sill cock that includesa valve body with threads that are adapted to receive a hose, the valvebody also having an inlet volume and an outlet volume separated by aninternally-disposed wall, a lower surface of the wall defining a valveseat, the valve body further including a vent that provides a flow pathbetween the outside of the valve body and the inlet volume; a sealpositioned with the valve body in a volume located adjacent to the inletvolume, the seal adapted to selectively block the vent; a valve capinterconnected to the valve body that is positioned within the volumethat maintains the seal against the valve body, the valve cap havingthreads for interconnection to a sill cock of a faucet; an inlet checkvalve comprising: an inlet check spring positioned within the inletvolume, wherein the spring contacts an upper surface of the wall, aninlet check body positioned within the inlet check spring, an inletcheck seal interconnected to the inlet check body that is adapted toselectively engage the seal, thereby opening and closing an aperture ofthe seal to control fluid flow from the valve cap into the inlet volume;a drain spring positioned within the outlet volume that contacts theseat and a plunger that is adapted to engage a hose; an outlet checkvalve comprising: an outlet check body positioned within the drainspring, an outlet check seal interconnected to the outlet check bodythat is adapted to selectively engage the seat to either open a flowpath between the inlet volume and outlet volume, or isolate the outletvolume from the inlet volume, thereby preventing fluid from flowing froman interconnected hose into the sill cock; and an outlet check springpositioned about the outlet check body that contacts a portion of theoutlet check body and a hub of the plunger.

More generally, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide aback flow prevention device, that includes a valve body with a fixedinlet volume and a fixed outlet volume, the valve body also having avent for allowing fluid from inside the valve body to escape; a valvecap; a seal positioned between the valve cap and the valve body; aninlet check valve positioned within the inlet volume; and an outletcheck valve positioned within the outlet volume.

In addition, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide a backflow prevention device including a body with a fixed inlet volume and afixed outlet volume, the body also having an aperture; a cap; a primarymeans for sealing positioned between the cap and the body; an inletmeans for selectively preventing flow of fluid positioned within theinlet volume; and an outlet means for selectively preventing flow offluid positioned within the outlet volume.

Further, one of skill in the art will appreciate upon review of thisdisclosure that it is another aspect of the present invention to providea water delivery system including a faucet associated with a watersupply; a valve associated with the faucet that is adapted toselectively control the flow of fluid from the water supply through thefaucet; and a double check valve associated with the faucet thatprevents fluid from entering the water supply and that allows fluidwithin the faucet to drain therefrom when the valve is in the offposition, the double check valve comprising: a valve body with a fixedinlet volume and a fixed outlet volume, the valve body also having avent for allowing fluid from inside the valve body to escape, a valvecap, a seal positioned between the valve cap and the valve body, aninlet check valve positioned within the inlet volume, and an outletcheck valve positioned with the outlet volume.

It is also an aspect of the present invention to provide a back flowprevention device that employs a housing having a passageway configuredfor the transport of a fluid therethrough, the housing having an inletand an outlet, the passageway encompassing a valve system consistingessentially of: a first check valve disposed in the passageway thatallows fluid to flow through the passageway in the direction from theinlet to the outlet; and a second check valve disposed in the passagewaythat allows fluid to flow through the passageway in the direction fromthe inlet to the outlet; a diaphragm disposed in the passageway adaptedto engage at least one of the first check valve and the second checkvalve; a vent in fluid communication with the passageway and locatedbetween the first and second check valves, the vent selectively isolatedfrom the passageway by the diaphragm, the vent adapted to permit fluidlocated between the first and second check valves to exit the housingthrough the vent, whereby the back flow prevention device permitssubstantially all fluid to drain completely from the device.

It is still yet an aspect of the present invention to provide a backflow prevention device that includes a housing having first and secondends and including a means for connecting to a fluid inlet line at thefirst end and for connecting a fluid outlet line to the second end; acentral cavity within the housing; wherein the housing includes a valvesystem consisting essentially of first and second drain valves and isdevoid of a third drain valve, the first drain valve located within thehousing between the central cavity and the fluid inlet line to permitdrainage of fluid from the fluid inlet line to the fluid outlet line endof the housing when the fluid outlet line is not connected thereto, andthe second valve located within the housing between the central cavityand the fluid inlet line to control flow between the fluid inlet lineand the central cavity, whereby the back flow prevention device permitssubstantially all fluid to drain completely from the device.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it beconstrued as being representative of the full extent and scope of thepresent invention. The present invention is set forth in various levelsof detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attacheddrawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitationas to the scope of the present invention is intended by either theinclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summaryof the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention willbecome more readily apparent from the Detail Description, particularlywhen taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention andtogether with the general description of the invention given above andthe detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explainthe principles of these inventions.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a double check valve of one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a partial cross-sectional view of the double check valve ofone embodiment of the present invention associated with a faucet;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the double check valve shownin FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing an open flowconfiguration wherein the double check valve is interconnected on oneend to a sill cock and opened on the other end;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing a no flowconfiguration wherein the double check valve is interconnected to a sillcock and a hose;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing a closed flowconfiguration wherein the double check valve is interconnected to a sillcock and a hose;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing a double check valvein a siphon condition;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing the double checkvalve exposed to back siphonage;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing the double checkvalve subsequent to hose removal;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing the double checkvalve during testing;

FIG. 11 is a valve cap of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 12 is a valve cap of an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention.

To assist in the understanding of the present invention the followinglist of components and associated numbering found in the drawings isprovided herein:

# Components

-   2 Double check valve-   4 Hose-   6 Inlet check valve-   10 Outlet check valve-   14 Valve body-   18 Valve cap-   22 Vent-   26 Outlet-   30 Inlet-   34 Main seal-   38 Inlet check seal

# Components

-   42 Threads-   46 Knurls-   50 Hose plunger-   51 Faucet-   52 Valve-   54 O-ring-   58 Wrench flats-   62 Annular jut-   66 Inlet check body-   70 Hooked surface-   74 Inlet check spring-   78 Seat-   80 Passage-   82 Drain spring-   86 Outlet check body-   90 Hollow portion-   94 Slot-   98 Stop-   102 Outlet check seal-   104 Outlet check spring-   108 Cylindrical portion-   112 Protrusion-   116 Hub-   118 Upper surface-   120 Lip-   124 Stop-   128 Thumb screw hole-   132 Hose washer

# Components

-   134 Fluid-   136 Ring-   140 Groove-   142 Inner surface-   144 Bottom inner surface-   150 Inlet check seal groove-   154 Outlet check seal groove

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale,although particular perspective dimensions may be relied upon to definethe present invention. In certain instances, details that are notnecessary for an understanding of the invention or that render otherdetails difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should beunderstood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited tothe particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-12 , a double check valve 2 is provided thatincludes an inlet check valve 6 and an outlet check valve 10 positionedin a valve body 14. The valve body 14 receives a valve cap 18 that isadapted for interconnection to a sill cock of a faucet, for example. Thevalve body 14 also includes a plurality of vents 22 that allow fordrainage of fluids from the sill cock, the inlet check valve 6 and/oroutlet check valve 10 depending on the pressure gradient within thedouble check valve 2. Embodiments of the present invention thus allowfluid within the sill cock to drain from the double check valve toprevent freezing. Back flow is prevented such that when pressure at anoutlet 26 of the double check valve is greater than the pressure at theinlet 30, which is in communication with a fluid supply, a main seal 34(or diaphragm) will cooperate with an inlet check seal 38 to preventback flow from entering the fluid supply. Excess water then will betrapped within the inlet check valve 6 or outlet check valve 10 (when ahose is interconnected to the check valve), or be drained from the vents22. If no hose is interconnected, trapped fluid is able to drain fromthe inlet and outlet valves as well.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 1A, a double check valve 2 of oneembodiment of the present invention is shown. Preferably, the componentsof double check valve 2, which will be described in further detailbelow, are constructed of a rigid material commonly used in the plumbingarts, such as brass. However, one skilled in the art will appreciateother suitable materials may be utilized without deviating from thescope of the invention. The double check valve 2 includes a valve body14 that is interconnected to a valve cap 18. The valve cap 18 is theinlet 30 of the double check valve 2 and employs a plurality of threads42 (or a bayonet fitting), positioned on its outer and/or inner surfacethereof, for interconnection to a sill cock of a faucet. The valve body14 is preferably a cylindrical member that may include a knurled 46outer surface that aids in the interconnection of the double check valve2 to a fluid source. The double check valve 2 also includes a pluralityof vents 22 that allow fluid and/or air to escape from the internalvolume thereof. The valve body 14 also includes a plurality of threads42 positioned about an outlet 26 of the double check valve 2. A hoseplunger 50 is selectively interconnected to the valve body 14 and isdesigned to coincide with the outlet 26 of the double check valve 2 whena hose 4 is interconnected thereto. FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment ofthe double check valve 2 in association with a faucet 51, also referredto as a sill cock. The faucet 51 employs a valve 52 to control the flowof water.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3 , exploded views of one embodiment of thepresent invention are provided. An o-ring 54 is positioned within thevalve cap 18. One of skill in the art will appreciate the sealingfunction provided by the o-ring 54 may be performed by a flat seal orany other sealing member, or combination thereof, without departing fromthe scope of the invention. The valve cap 18 may also include aplurality of wrench flats 58 for securely interconnecting the doublecheck valve 2 to a sill cock, for example. The valve cap 18 alsoincludes an annular jut 62 that interfaces with the main seal 34 of thedouble check valve 2. Between the main seal 34 and the valve body 14resides an inlet check body 66 that includes a lower end with aprotruding, or hooked surface 70. The inlet check body 66 receives theinlet check seal 38 on one end and an inlet check spring 74 on the otherend. The inlet check spring 74 rests on an internal wall, or seat 78,provided within the valve body 14. Alternatively, the inlet check spring74 may contact and outlet check body 86. The seat 78 defines a passage80 that allows fluid to flow from the inlet check valve 6 to the outletcheck valve 10. The valve body 14 also includes threads 42 that receivea hose.

The seat 78 is also associated with a drain spring 82 that is positionedabout the outlet check body 86. The outlet check body 86 includes ahollow portion 90 having a slot 94 bounded by a stop 98. The stop 98cooperates with the hooked surface 70 of the inlet check body 66,thereby operably interconnecting the inlet check body 66 and the outletcheck body 86. The outlet check body 86 includes an outlet check seal102 and an outlet check spring 104 positioned about a cylindricalportion 108 thereof. Finally, the outlet check body 86 includes a lowerprotrusion 112 that is snap fit within a hub 116 of the hose plunger 50.

An upper surface 118 of the hose plunger 50 is engaged to the drainspring 82 wherein its lower portion is adapted to contact a hose. Thehose plunger 50 also includes a lip that engages an inner surface of thevalve body 14 when a hose is interconnected thereto that preventsfurther insertion of the hose plunger 50 into the double check valvewhen the hose is interconnected. The hose plunger 50 of one embodimentof the present invention is a snap fit within the valve body 14 suchthat the lip 120 of the hose plunger 50 engages a stop 124 providedadjacent to the outlet of the valve body 14 when a hose is notinterconnected to the valve body 14.

Referring now to FIG. 4 , the double check valve 2 of one embodiment isshown during an open flow condition. Here, the valve cap 18 is showninterconnected to the valve body 14. The valve cap 18 may include athumbscrew aperture 128 to receive a thumbscrew that allows a user totightly (an often permanently) affix the double check valve 2 onto asill cock. A main seal 34 is positioned between the annular jut 62 ofthe valve cap 18 and the valve body 14. Embodiments of the presentinvention interference fit the valve cap 18 onto the valve body 14. Oneskilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the valve cap 18 maybe screwed, welded or otherwise interconnected to the valve body 14. Ano-ring 54 resides within the valve cap 18 and is adapted to provide aseal between the sill cock and the valve cap 18.

FIG. 4 shows an open flow condition wherein the supply pressure existsbut no hose is interconnected to the double check valve 2. The hoseplunger 50 is biased by the drain spring 82 such that the lip 120 of thehose plunger 50 contacts the stop 124 of the valve body 14. Supplypressure forces the main seal 34 to deflect downwardly, which blocksfluid flow through the vents 22. This configuration is substantiallydifferent from the V-444 configuration described above. During an openflow condition with no interconnected hose, the V-444 valve will allowfluid to escape out of the vents that wastes water. Supply pressure alsoforces the inlet check body 66 downwardly, which compresses the inletcheck spring 74. The supply pressure in this configuration is sufficientenough to transition the outlet check seal 102 downwardly and tocompress the outlet check spring 104 to separate the outlet check seal102 and seat 78.

Referring now to FIG. 5 , the double check valve 2 is shown with thehose 4 interconnected during a non-flow condition. In thisconfiguration, connection of the hose 4, which includes a hose washer132, forces the hose plunger 50, and thus the hub 116 thereof, axiallyupward. The upward motion of the hose plunger 50 compresses the outletcheck spring 104, which forces the outlet check body 86 upwardly suchthat the outlet check seal 102 engages the seat 78. Thus,interconnection of the hose 4 completely isolates the outlet check valve10 from the inlet check valve 6. If any back flow causing pressure risein the hose 4 occurs, the seal between the outlet check seal 102 and itsseat 78 will prevent fluid from entering the fluid source, unless thosecomponents have failed (for example, debris lodged between the outletcheck seal 102 and the seat 7 that allows for fluid infiltration). Sincethere is no flow from the fluid supply, the inlet check spring 74 andthe inlet check body 66 will be positioned upwardly so that the inletcheck seal 38 is engaged to the main seal 34. Thus, the inlet checkvalve 6 is isolated from the valve cap 18 that is interconnected to thefluid source. The inlet check valve 6 is, however, in fluidiccommunication with the vents 22 wherein any fluid pressurized by thetransitioning outlet check body 86 will exit therethrough.

Referring now to FIG. 6 , a closed flow condition is shown wherein thehose (not shown) is interconnected to the valve body 14 and the fluidsupply has been opened. Here, supply pressure deflects the innerdiameter of the main seal 34 downwardly such that the main seal 34blocks the vents 22. Supply pressure also acts on the inlet check seal38 to force it downwardly which compresses the inlet check spring 74. Asdescribed above, since the hose is interconnected to the valve body 14,the hose plunger and the outlet check body 86 will be shifted upwardly.The inlet check body, however, will contact the outlet check body 86 andforce it downwardly, thereby counteracting the outlet check seal andopening the passage 80 between the inlet check valve 6 and the outletcheck valve 10.

Referring now to FIG. 7 , a non-flow configuration wherein a siphon hasoccurred is shown subsequent to the removal of supply pressure with thehose (not shown) interconnected to the valve body 14. A siphon conditionmay be caused when gravity-induced flow of the water in the hose pulls avacuum after the supply pressure has been shut off. The vacuum withinthe inlet check valve 6 and the outlet check valve causes the main seal34 and the outlet check body 86 to deflect towards the outlet of thedouble check valve 2. The outlet check body 86 translates downwardlyuntil it contacts the hub 116 of the hose plunger 50. The inlet checkspring 74 pushes the inlet check body 66 upwardly. However, the hookedsurface 70 of the inlet check body 66 will engage with the stop 98 ofthe outlet check body 86, thereby limiting the range of motion of theinlet check body 66 and preventing the inlet check seal 38 from closingthe main seal 34. That is, during a siphoning condition, the inlet checkseal 38 will not be able to fully flatten the main seal 34. As a result,the deflected main seal 34 will be prevented from completely blockingthe vents 22. A path between the inlet check seal 38 and the internalsurface of the inlet check valve 6 will allow air from the outside ofthe double check valve 2 to enter through the vents 22 to break thevacuum which allows the outlet check spring 104 to relax and engage theoutlet check valve 10 on the seat 78. This in turn will allow the inletcheck body 66 to transition upwardly to engage the inlet check seal 38onto the main seal 34 to isolate the inlet check valve 6 and the outletcheck valve 10 from the valve cap 18 as shown in FIG. 5 .

Referring now to FIG. 8 , a back siphonage situation is shown. Here, thehose (not shown) is interconnected to the valve body 14 and a vacuum hasoccurred at fluid supply that could cause contaminated fluid from thehose or double check valve 2 to enter the fluid supply. In operation,the hose forces the hose plunger 50 upwardly that compresses the drainspring 82. The hub 116 of the hose plunger 50 also moves upwardly andforces, via the outlet check spring 104, the outlet valve check body 86to move upwardly so that outlet check seal 102 engages the seat 78. Thevacuum in the valve cap 18 pulls the inlet check seal upwardly to engagethe main seal 34. Thus the outlet check valve 10 is isolated from theinlet check valve 6 and the inlet check valve 6 is isolated from the capvalve 18 which is interconnected to the fluid supply, and no fluid fromthe hose and/or the double check valve can enter the fluid supply.

Referring now to FIG. 9 , draining of the double check valve 2 isillustrated. After the hose is removed, the drain spring 82 expands andforces the hose plunger 50 downwardly such that the lip 120 of the hoseplunger 50 contacts the stop 124 of the valve body 14. The hub 116 ofthe hose plunger 50 will also contact the protrusion 112 of the outletcheck body 86 and pull the outlet valve body 86 downwardly, whichremoves the outlet check seal 102 from the outlet check seat 78. Thestop 98 of the outlet check body 86 will contact the hooked surface 70of the inlet check body 66 and pull the inlet check seal 38 from themain seal 34. Thus, a free flow path from the inlet check valve 6 intothe outlet check valve 10 and out of the hose plunger 50 is provided.Water in the sill cock will also be able to flow through the valve cap18 and through the inlet check valve 6, the outlet check valve 10 andout of the hose plunger 50. Fluid may also drain through the pluralityof vents provided.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , the double check valve 2 is shown during atest. More specifically, it is one aspect of the present invention thatthe double check valve 2 of embodiments of the present invention can beeasily tested in the field to ensure that it is in proper workingcondition. Here, the hose (not shown) is interconnected to the threads42 of the valve body 14 that forces the hose plunger 50 upwardly andcompresses the drain spring 82. The hub 116 is also forced upwardlywhich compresses the outlet check spring 104 and forces the outlet checkseal 102 against seat 78. If the double check valve 2 is workingproperly the outlet check valve 10 should be isolated from the vents 22.Fluid 134 is then added via the hose and into the outlet 26 of thedouble check valve 2. If the integrity of the outlet check valve 102 andthe seat 78 are adequate, no fluid will enter the inlet check valve 6.Conversely, if the integrity between the outlet check seal 102 and theseat 78 is broken, fluid 134 will fill the inlet check valve 6, and willexit from the plurality of vents 22. The inlet check spring 74 willforce the inlet check body 66 upwardly to place the inlet check seal 38in contact with the main seal 34 to prevent any fluid from entering thewater source during this test.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12 , valve caps 18 of alternateembodiments of the present invention are provided. Here, the annular jut62, which interfaces with the main seal 34 and ring 136, whichinterfaces with a groove 140 provided on the valve body 14 aresubstantially the same as those described above. However, the inletportion 30 of the valve cap 18 includes a plurality of exterior threads42 for threading onto sill cocks and have inwardly threads 42.Inspection of FIGS. 11 and 12 will show that the inlets 30 of thesevalve caps 18 are of different diameters, thereby succinctlyillustrating the scalability of the present invention.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that the valve described andshown herein may be interconnected to the sill cock via a bendable ortelescoping member to provide the ability to selectively locate thevalve. Alternatively, or in addition, valves as described may possesstelescoping functionality as shown in U.S. Design Patent No. D491,253 toHansle. The valve may also employ a timer, flow regulation capabilities,etc. to control the flow of fluid therefrom. The valve may employ morethan one outlet, which each may include valving as described, and mayemploy a combination of materials as described in Tripp. Further, thevalve may be directly integrated into the sill cock instead ofinterconnected thereto. The system described herein may include a visualor audible alarm to notify the instance of a valve failure.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedin detail, it will be apparent that modifications and alterations ofthose embodiments are also intended to be encompassed by thisdescription. However, it is to be expressly understood that suchmodifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of thepresent invention, as set forth in the following claims. For example,aspects of inventions disclosed in U.S. Pat. and Published Pat.Application Nos. 5632303, 5590679, 7100637, 5813428, and 20060196561,all of which are incorporated herein by this reference, which generallyconcern back flow prevention, may be incorporated into embodiments ofthe present invention. Aspects of inventions disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.5701925 and 5246028, all of which are incorporated herein by thisreference, which generally concern sanitary hydrants, may beincorporated into embodiments of the present invention. Aspects ofinventions disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6532986, 6805154, 6135359,6769446, 6830063, RE39235, 6206039, 6883534, 6857442 and 6142172, all ofwhich are incorporated herein by this reference, which generally concernfreeze-proof hydrants, may be incorporated into embodiments of thepresent invention. Aspects of inventions disclosed in U.S. Pat. andPublished Pat. Application Nos. D521113, D470915, 7234732, 7059937,6679473, 6431204, 7111875, D482431, 6631623, 6948518, 6948509,20070044840, 20070044838, 20070039649, 20060254647 and 20060108804, allof which are incorporated herein by this reference, which generallyconcern general hydrant technology, may be incorporated into embodimentsof the present invention.

1-15. (canceled)
 16. A back flow prevention device comprising: a valvebody comprising an inlet and an outlet, wherein one or more vents aredefined in the valve body between the inlet and the outlet; a sealproximate the one or more vents; a plunger proximate the outlet; and avalve assembly disposed at least partially within the valve body andmoveable relative to the seal, wherein: in a first condition, when afluid flow is supplied at the inlet and the plunger is in a firstposition, the fluid flow forces the seal to block the one or more ventsand moves the valve assembly so that the fluid flow is channeled throughthe valve body and out the outlet; and in a second condition, when thefluid flow is removed from the inlet and the plunger is in the firstposition, the valve assembly is biased towards a free flow position sothat fluid can drain through the valve body and out the outlet.
 17. Thedevice of claim 16, wherein when the device is in the second condition,fluid can also drain through the valve body and out the one or morevents.
 18. The device of claim 16, wherein the valve body furthercomprises a stop proximate the outlet, and wherein the stop engages withthe plunger when the plunger is in the first position.
 19. The device ofclaim 16, wherein the valve assembly comprises an inlet check valve andan outlet check valve.
 20. The device of claim 19, wherein in a thirdcondition, when the fluid flow is removed from the inlet and the plungeris in a second position, the outlet check valve closes so that a backflow is prevented from entering a fluid source coupled to the inlet. 21.The device of claim 20, wherein in the third condition, the outlet checkvalve is isolated from the inlet check valve.
 22. The device of claim19, wherein in a fourth condition, when the fluid flow is supplied atthe inlet and the plunger is in a second position, the fluid flow forcesthe seal to block the one or more vents and moves the valve assembly sothat the fluid flow is channeled through the valve body and out theoutlet.
 23. The device of claim 22, wherein in the fourth condition, theinlet check valve is moved by the fluid flow force and contacts theoutlet check valve to move the outlet check valve.
 24. The device ofclaim 19, wherein in a fifth condition, the fluid flow is removed fromthe inlet, the plunger is in a second position, and a vacuum occurswithin the valve body, the valve assembly forms an air flow path betweenthe one or more vents and the outlet.
 26. The device of claim 24,wherein in the fifth condition, the outlet check valve limits a range ofmotion of the inlet check valve.
 27. The device of claim 19, wherein ina sixth condition, when the plunger is in a second position and a vacuumoccurs at a fluid supply coupled to the inlet, the valve assemblyprevents a back flow from entering the fluid supply.
 28. The device ofclaim 27, wherein in the sixth condition, the inlet check valve engageswith the seal.
 29. The device of claim 27, wherein the inlet check valveis in fluid communication with the one or more vents.
 30. A systemcomprising: a faucet coupled to a valve, wherein the faucet selectivelycontrols a fluid flow from a fluid source; and a back flow preventiondevice comprising: a valve cap that removably couples the back flowprevention device to the faucet; a valve body comprising an inlet and anoutlet, wherein one or more vents are defined in the valve body betweenthe inlet and the outlet, and wherein the inlet couples to the valvecap; a hose plunger proximate the outlet; and a valve assembly disposedat least partially within the valve body, wherein when the fluid flow issupplied at the inlet and the hose plunger is in a first position, thevalve assembly blocks the one or more vents and opens the valve assemblyso that the fluid flow is channeled through the valve body and out theoutlet, and wherein when the fluid flow is removed from the inlet andthe hose plunger is in the first position, the valve assembly opens boththe one or more vents and the outlet for drainage.
 31. The system ofclaim 30, wherein the valve cap comprises a first end that threads ontothe faucet and an opposite second end that couples to the valve body.32. The system of claim 31, wherein the first end comprises a pluralityof exterior threads.
 33. The system of claim 30, wherein when the hoseplunger is in a second position and a vacuum is formed within the valvebody, the valve assembly forms an air flow path between the one or morevents and the outlet.
 34. The system of claim 30, wherein when the hoseplunger is in a second position and a vacuum is formed at the fluidsource, the valve assembly prevents a back flow from entering thefaucet.
 35. A back flow prevention device comprising: a valve bodycomprising an inlet and an outlet, wherein one or more vents are definedin the valve body between the inlet and the outlet; a seal proximate theone or more vents; a plunger proximate the outlet; and a valve assemblydisposed at least partially within the valve body and moveable relativeto the seal, the valve assembly comprising an inlet check valve, a seat,and an outlet check valve, wherein: in a first condition, when a fluidflow is supplied at the inlet and the plunger is in a first position,the fluid flow forces the seal to block the one or more vents and movesthe valve assembly so that the fluid flow is channeled through the valvebody and out the outlet; in a second condition, when the fluid flow isremoved from the inlet and the plunger is in the first position, thevalve assembly is biased towards a free flow position so that fluid candrain through the valve body and out the outlet; and in a thirdcondition, when the fluid flow is removed at the inlet and the plungeris in a second position, the outlet check valve is forced to engage theseat, and the outlet check valve is isolated from the inlet check valve,while the inlet check valve is in fluidic communication with the one ormore vents to allow fluid within the valve body to exit through the oneor more vents.